Chery slashes price of E5 Ultimate, making it lowest-cost electric SUV with 420 km range

Chery has significantly reduced the price of its MY26 E5 Ultimate electric SUV, now offering it at a driveaway cost of $37,990 in Australia. This price cut of over $6,000 positions the E5 Ultimate as the most affordable electric SUV in the market with a WLTP range exceeding 420 kilometres. The move comes amid a surge in electric vehicle demand in Australia, with sales hitting record levels and manufacturers competing through aggressive pricing to capture consumer interest. The E5 Ultimate, launched in the latter half of 2024, features a 61 kWh Lithium-Iron-Phosphate battery that delivers up to 430 km of range. It supports AC charging at up to 9.9 kW on three-phase chargers, a relatively uncommon feature in this price segment, and fast charging at 80 kW, enabling a 30 to 80 per cent charge in just 28 minutes. The SUV is available in two variants sharing the same powertrain and battery, with the Ultimate edition boasting a comprehensive suite of features such as dual 12.3-inch displays, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated seats, a powered sunroof and tailgate, and a 360-degree camera system. Safety and reliability are key selling points for the E5, which earned a 5-star ANCAP safety rating in 2024. Chery backs the vehicle with a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty, including capped price servicing and roadside assistance, while the battery benefits from an eight-year unlimited kilometre warranty. These assurances align the E5 with industry standards and provide confidence to prospective buyers looking for long-term value in an affordable electric SUV. Lucas Harris, COO of Chery Australia, emphasised the company’s goal to make electric vehicles more accessible without compromising on quality or technology. The price reduction reflects Chery’s strategy to appeal to a broader range of Australian consumers and strengthen its position in a rapidly evolving EV market. With the MY26 E5 Ultimate now available through Chery dealerships, the brand is poised to attract buyers seeking a practical, well-equipped electric SUV at a competitive price point.